The New York Mets are set to open a series against the Detroit Tigers on May 12, 2026, and all eyes will be on a historic moment at Citi Field: top prospect A.J. Ewing is making his major league debut.

Ewing, a highly-touted catcher, will start in center field—a testament to his athletic versatility—and bat eighth. This is a huge milestone for the young star, who has been tearing it up in the minors. He'll be catching veteran arms and looking to make an immediate impact at the plate.

Manager Carlos Mendoza has stacked the lineup with a potent mix of speed and power. Carson Benge leads off in right field, followed by Bo Bichette at shortstop and the ever-dangerous Juan Soto in left. Mark Vientos holds down first base, with MJ Melendez serving as the designated hitter. Brett Baty is at third, Marcus Semien at second, and Francisco Alvarez will handle the catching duties.

On the other side, the Tigers counter with a lineup that features Kevin McGonigle at shortstop, Matt Vierling in center, and power-hitting Riley Greene in left. Colt Keith is the designated hitter, with Spencer Torkelson at first base. Detroit will be looking to spoil Ewing's debut and get their series started on the right foot.

First pitch is scheduled for 7:10 PM ET. Fans can catch the action on SNY or listen live on Audacy Mets Radio WHSQ 880AM, the Audacy App, or 92.3 HD2. It’s a night of promise for the Mets—and a chance to see a future star take his first big-league swings.